The First Nations tongue is considered critically endangered by Unesco but it’s now the second-most spoken language in Cowra
In a newly constructed yarning circle, students from Holmwood public school are practising an acknowledgment of country in Wiradjuri. The relieving principal, Beatrice Murray, raises her voice to be heard above the noise.
“Yiradhu marang,” she says to get their attention. It means good day, or hello. Holding a laminated sheet of paper, Murray leads the primary school students through the acknowledgment. The aim is for the children to memorise the words and pronunciation so they can offer an acknowledgment with kindness, respect and strength – the Wiradjuri concept yindyamarra.
“We talk about the importance of having sensitivity, of making sure when you speak language it’s done in the right place and the right time,” Murray says. “This next generation of kids coming through is beautiful, they’re more accepting of different cultures. As a teacher I can say I’m hopeful that things will get better.”
Wiradjuri is the most commonly spoken language in Cowra other than English, according to the 2021 census. Thirty-five households reported that Wiradjuri was the main language spoken at home but Murray believes even more speak some Wiradjuri, woven in with English.
“If Wiradjuri people sit down and list the words they already know, they’d be surprised how many were words they use in everyday conversation,” she says. “It’s always been part of the way we talk.”
Murray grew up speaking scattered words of Wiradjuri, and joined a language course after hearing leaders including Uncle Stan Grant Sr and Letetia Harris speak confidently in Wiradjuri.
“I realised how important language is to build Wiradjuri people up, strengthen our identity, strengthen culture,” she says. “The more of us that learn our language, the better off we’ll be.
“What do we want for the future of our children, our grandchildren and great-grandchildren? Having knowledge of their language in their own culture and identity – that’s the end goal.”
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